PROVIDENCE – After a national search, the board of directors of the YMCA of Greater Providence has selected James Berson as its new president and CEO.

Berson, who took over the corner office on Aug. 20, is the 21st CEO to lead the organization since its 1853 inception.

“We are very excited to welcome Jim into his new role at the Y,” Mark Saccoccio, chair of the Y’s board of directors, said in a statement. “His years of experience and expertise as well as his excellent relationships with leaders throughout the area will help propel us forward as we strive to help kids and families achieve and improve the health of our community.”

Berson has served on a range of boards and committees, including the Quonset Development Corporation and the Rhode Island Association for the Education of Young Children. He has also held executive leadership roles at both Meeting Street and The Providence Center.

Berson, who was a member of the YMCA of Greater Providence’s board of directors, also served as past chair of the West Bay Family YMCA and has been an active member of that board for more than seven years.

“I am honored and humbled to step into this role with the YMCA, an organization known for the tremendous impact it has on the children and families in our area,” said Berson in prepared remarks. “I look forward to working with our volunteers and staff to address the critical needs of our communities.”

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